A week ago, we began December’s sermon series talking about hearing and heeding the voice of Jesus. What happens When Jesus calls us? John 1.38 marks the beginning of Jesus’ earthly ministry. The section divides nicely into two parts, with two groups of men: Andrew/ Peter, and Philip/Nathaniel. John is also here, but he never draws attention to himself.

I. 1.38-42 – ANDREW & PETER

1.38 – This Bethany is beyond the Jordan, in the wilderness. John was baptizing there. It’s still day 3 in our story or snapshot of John’s ministry.

1.39a – Jesus: Come and you will see.

1.39b – They go where Jesus was staying.

1.39c – It was around 4 pm.

1.38 – Jesus asks, What are you seeking? What’s your motivation?

1.38b – Andrew/John reply, Rabbi, where are you staying? They want time.

1.40 – It was Andrew, Peter’s brother, who accompanied John.

1.41 – He is totally convinced that Jesus is the Messiah. How do we know?

1.42a – Andrew brings Simon to Jesus.

1.42b – So you are Simon the son of John? You shall be called Cephas,…

II. 1.43-51 – DAY FOUR: PHILIP & NATHANIEL:

1.43b – When they get to Galilee, they find Philip. Jesus: Follow me.

1.44 – John supplies us with where Philip is from: Bethsaida.

1.46 – Can anything good come out of Nazareth?

1.47 – Philip and Nathanael head to Jesus. Jesus sees Nathanael coming and says, Behold, an Israelite indeed, in whom there is no deceit.

1.48a – Nathanael: How do you know me?

1.48b – Before Philip called you, when you were under the fig tree, I saw you.

1.49 – Nathanael: Rabbi, you are the Son of God! You are the king of Israel!

Now, we’re on day 4 of these events. Jesus decides to go to Galilee.

1.45a – What does Philip do after speaking with Jesus? He finds Nathanael: We have found him of whom Moses in the Law and also the prophets wrote, Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph.

1.46-48 – Nathanael’s testimony:

III. WHY THIS MATTERS:

You have to remember the historical context: Uncertainty in their nation, their families, and religion.

The Jewish people were desperate, earnestly looking for a Savior, a deliverer, someone who could help them.

What did people see in Jesus? What must they have observed that made them want to follow, often with very little hesitation?

What He brought to the world so long ago He’s still bringing today. His message still resonates right now. With Christ, there is always great anticipation that something better is coming.